Less than a week after the slaughtering of the leaders of the Separatists, Dormé started not feeling well. She was barely able to eat much at all and though the doctors said it was only morning sickness, that the baby she had been carrying for only three months was just fine, she had a sinking feeling that everything wasn’t fine.

Anakin felt a shift in Dormé’s Force signature and grew concerned. It wasn’t long after before his beloved fell ill, which in turn, was vaguely felt by him as well. Worried for the safety of Dormé and their baby, the Sith Lord promptly went about finding a specialist to monitor both the mother and child. But as with their personal physician, nothing out of the ordinary was found, despite Dormé and Anakin’s concerns.

Today, the young emperor sensed something was terribly wrong and upon realising he could no longer sense their baby’s Force signature, he frantically order the specialist’s presence on emergency.

Shortly after, the bleeding and cramps began.

Despite the fact the physician now resided within the palace wall—so as to ever near in case of such emergencies—it was too late. Within minutes of notifying Dormé that the specialist was on the way, the small life returned to the Force.

Anakin didn’t leave Dormé’s side through the entire ordeal, despite their demands he depart. But in the end, he satisfied himself with watching her from the far side of the room lest he interfere with the hopeless chance that they might save their baby. It proved to be a lost cause.

‘No...’ she murmured, tears flowing heedlessly down her cheeks. Not again! Why? Why did this happen?? she thought desperately, waiting for the medical technicians to give her a solid reason.

As Dormé demanded answers, he promptly joined her side, trying to offer what silent comfort her could. Given his own state of despair and sorrow, sending peaceful thoughts to her through the Force was impossible.

When they could offer none, she screamed at them, venting her anger and frustration, though it did little good. She ached all over and welcomed the drug they gave to sedate her. She didn’t want to feel anything or be able to think about the baby she lost.

As they injected her with a drug that would ease her pain, Anakin softly told her that he was going to get to the bottom of this matter once and for all. Yet when the Sith Lord demanded to know what exactly had happened and how it would affect Dormé’s health, no one was able to answer his questions and were as baffled by it all, for neither the mother, nor the child showed any signs that would suggest a cause for the miscarriage.

‘This has never happened before in all of my years of service, I don’t know what to tell your grace because this technically should never have happened,’ the specialist stated in concern to a frustrated and despairing Anakin.

Vader immediately killed her for her ignorance and then proceeded to destroy the droids who were also in the room at the time. While the elderly woman’s death sated his rage for the moment, as did the passing of the droids, it did little to ease his sorrow and fear for his beloved’s health. Something was obviously wrong. Someone was obviously trying to hide information from them. Why else would they claim Dormé was healthy, as was their baby, only to have her lose it? The thought both infuriated and filled him with paralyzing fear.

What if she was dying and they didn’t know? What if she was ill with an incurable disease? The darkness continued to whisper its lies into the Sith Lord’s mind filling him with despair and paranoia. Frantic he ordered some of his finest intelligence to locate and find all the most skilled healers in the empire. If modern technology couldn’t help them or wouldn’t help them, then he would find those who were more in tune with the natural side of medicine. He prayed this would provide the answers he so dearly sought. In the meantime the all the doctors and medical technicians behind this failure would pay for their mistake with their lives.

Having ordered their demise, the young emperor quietly returned to where his wife now lay resting. Shyly, he joined her side, noting the effects of the drugs through her aura and hoping that it was helping with her pain. If only he knew of a way to numb the pain of the loss, but that was nothing more than wishful thinking. Gently he took her left hand into his metallic right while his left hand ran his fingers through her long hair, matted with cold perspiration. Though he tried to resist it, soon the tears began to trickle down his cheeks as he watched her intently. While he believed he had done everything in his power to help her save their child, the young Sith Lord couldn’t help but feel he had failed her somehow. ‘I’m sorry...’ he whispered softly to her as he bowed his head. ‘I am so sorry...’

A few hours later, the sedative eventually expired and Dormé began to slowly regain consciousness. It wasn’t until she saw the look on Anakin’s face that she registered the miscarriage had happened, that it hadn’t been a nightmare brought on by fear.

Anakin felt her beginning to awaken and continued to run his fingers gently through her hair in a manner he knew she normally found comforting. Her exhaustion was expected but even so, Anakin was concerned. With the specialist withholding information from them and possibly lying about Dormé’s condition, the Sith Lord was fearful for her safety.

‘Anakin,’ she whispered, her voice thick from exhaustion.

‘It’s alright my love, you rest,’ he said softly as his hand slipped to her cheek.

She bit her lip momentarily, before she found the nerve to speak once more. ‘I’m sorry,’ she gasped out, feeling this was her entire fault, that it was because she had done something to lose this baby though she didn’t know what it could possibly be.

Her apology tore at his heart and brought new tears to his eyes as he shook his head in silence. Her sorrow was so powerful that it was almost overwhelming leaving him to wonder where hers began and his ended. ‘It’s not your fault, Dormé. Please don’t think any of this is your fault. It’s them. They have to be withholding information from us. I know there has to be something they’re not telling us. I’ve already sent out intelligence to find another specialist. This time one who will not try to deceive us,’ Anakin concluded in soft but determined tones.

His accusations of the staff for their incompetence and withholding of information ought to have made her feel better, placing the blame elsewhere, but Dormé was far too consumed with grieving now to be comforted in that way. Dormé wanted nothing more than to be alone with Anakin in their chambers so she could mourn properly without witnesses, not realising that he had already exacted revenge on the specialist and the stupid droids. With tired arms, she reached for him, unable to wait until they were in their quarters to sob unyieldingly. ‘Why? Why?’ she repeated.

He didn’t speak another word as she reached out to him with tired arms to which he promptly leant in to embrace her. Closing his eyes, he fought back his own tears of sorrow as he rubbed her back and continued to run his hand through her hair. In silence, he couldn’t help but ask the same question of the Force but as always only silence answered their pleas. The Sith Lord couldn’t understand what was wrong, what had happened, or why it had happened again. He knew without question that Dormé was innocent and that if anyone deserved a child, it was her. So why the unnecessary punishment? ‘This is my fault Dormé, not yours. If anyone is to blame, it is me. I foolishly didn’t find more specialists for another opinion. I should have had more healers watch and monitor your condition and the condition of—’ he didn’t dare finish the sentence lest he fall prey to his despair and pain.

Though she initiated reaching out to hold him, she was more enveloped in his arms due to her body still feeling weak from the ordeal. Her tears leant to her exhaustion, wondering why the Force or the gods had let this happen again. She hated to think on how this affected Anakin and when his last sentence stopped short, she pulled back slightly to look into his eyes, seeing the sorrow there. His pain mirrored her own and though naturally, it would seem to magnify their grief, it contrastingly made it easier to deal with than had either of them been alone.

Though Anakin tried his best to comfort her with words he soon realised, that like himself words were far too weak for their pain. Almost as soon as he discovered this Dormé was reaching for him and immediately he was wrapping his arms around her as though trying to protect her from her pain. Her body felt so frail in his arms like glass and this thought caused a chill of fear to run down his spine. Reminding himself that soon they would find another specialist this one far more trustworthy Anakin tried to calm his frantic thoughts. It was bad enough they lost two children, but the thought of losing Dormé was too much to even contemplate. For he knew if he were to ever lose his beloved he too would surely meet his own demise.

Leaning forward slightly with her arms still loosely around him, she rested her forehead against his as the last of her tears slowly fell. All she could think of was their little ones, both of them, that they hadn’t been able to meet, to see, to watch them grow up and find out what sort of personality they would have, what would interest them, make them laugh...

Despite his attempts to comfort both her and himself the guilt still lingered and plagued his thoughts and soon he was apologising for his own failures which caused her to draw back to stare into his eyes. Silently he touched her cheek and swallowed hard before closing his eyes as he felt her forehead rest against his own. Shaking now, he tightened his embrace further as he bit his lip so hard he could taste blood in his need to keep from weeping. He had to be strong for her sake, for both of their sakes but it was so hard for all he could feel was despair.

Once her last tears subsided, Dormé felt him shaking in her arms, though his arms were strong around her. Running her fingers through his hair, she wanted Anakin to know that it was OK for him to express his grief, that it was all right if he needed to cry, that in this moment, he didn’t have to be strong.

At her silent assurances, he continued to struggle to keep from giving in, but her touch was soothing and her silent support was too much to deny and despite his best efforts, the Sith Lord soon succumbed to his sorrow. Silently he sobbed with his face buried in Dormé’s dark hair, as his sorrow finally broke free. Like Dormé, it would be some time before the tears would finally run dry.

As time passed, Anakin found himself growing more conscious of his wife’s exhaustion and gently drew back as he furrowed a brow in concern. ‘You should rest. You’ve been through a lot already,’ he said softly wanting to carry her back to their quarters but concerned she wasn’t healed enough for that yet. Had he not destroyed and killed the medical staff he would have been able to verify that she was well enough but it was too late for such thinking and so he refrained. Anakin promptly decided he would stay here the night unless the replacement medical staff could confirm she was well enough to depart with him.

She silently nodded, hoping that she could return with him to their quarters, not wanting to be in this place of death any longer than was necessary. Dormé hoped as well that he would not leave her here alone with her thoughts. So long as his hand remained in hers, she was content enough to fall into a light doze until the replacement medical droids arrived to perform a check-up and deem her well enough to return to their private chamber.

Though he sensed she longed to return to her quarters he was fearful of her fragile condition and quietly explained that they should wait for the medical droids to ensure she was in good enough health to leave. With his hand in hers, Anakin watched as she drifted to sleep. He, however, never got a moments rest himself for he feared if he closed his eyes when they opened again she too would be lost.

When the medical droids finally arrived Anakin had many questions but kept most to himself save for when they explained to her once more that she was perfectly healthy and capable of having children in the future. Frowning he cursed at them demanding to know the truth saying that if she was so well than why was this happening?

Dormé awoke to their scanning and prodding, aching and asking if there were some medication she could take to ease the pain, as well as asking if, in their opinion, she was still healthy... Dormé couldn’t understand why all of this was happening, but she was now too exhausted to want to hear their warbling. The verdict was the same as before as though none of this had happened. It didn’t make any sense.

‘The baby and mother was healthy or so I’m told, but if that truly is the case, then why all of this? Hmm? I think you better find some answers and quickly or you’ll be joining the junk heap like your compatriots and that damned specialist in the next room!’ he growled in pained frustration.

She winced as they finished their prodding, but exhaled a shaky breath as Anakin growled at their assessment. Shaking her tired head, Dormé murmured that she wanted to go home, back to their quarters.

Anakin wanted to destroy them as well but refrained this time, as he knew they were only trying to tend to Dormé’s health. Even so, it didn’t stop him from scowling and arguing at the absurdity of their verdict and demand they look into the matter further. At Dormé’s soft words, the Sith Lord’s temper faded away leaving behind only the worried husband who wanted nothing more than to comfort and care for his beloved. Nodding at her words, he gently kissed her forehead and gingerly lifted her up in his arms. ‘I trust she is well enough to return to her quarters?’ he half asked, half demanded of the med droids who agreed with him, but warned that she shouldn’t over exert herself for the next few days. Without another word the young emperor carry his beloved back to their quarters while using the Force to mimic his hand in her hair in the hopes this might help her drift back to sleep again.

Anakin’s arms were by far more comfortable than the examination table and though Dormé was not well enough to wonder how he could be holding her and have a hand in her hair, it was familiar and soothing. She did not protest when Anakin aided her in washing up and changing before going to bed. Her legs felt like jelly and standing a long while made her dizzy, so she was glad to finally be able to rest in a proper bed. Even in this weakened state, clinging to Anakin made it much easier to sleep than in the medical facility.

Anakin didn’t speak a word as he helped her prepare for bed he just knew it wasn’t necessary and was grateful that she permitted him to help her. It broke his heart to see her like this so fragile and shattered and yet at the same time he couldn’t say he felt much better. The loss was so overwhelming and his fears that he would soon lose her too didn’t help any either. Holding her close, Anakin was able to find some solace in the fact that he was at least able to be there for her.

---

As the days wore on after the miscarriage, Dormé was regaining her strength and vigour, though it was more to do with her new resolve. After spending time with their newest residents, the younglings that used to belong to the Jedi, Dormé was coping with the loss of their little one by appreciating and doting on the younglings. They took to Dormé as though she were their mother, all twelve of them, their ages ranging from four to seven years. Every time she entered their play room, their eyes would light up and oftentimes she would be nearly barrelled over in the Jedi younglings in mind, Dormé threw herself into politics, ordering stormtrooper legions to various planets, including Naboo, to end all the oppression and child-labour that had been made illegal decades ago, though it hadn’t been properly enforced. Dormé made sure the laws against slavery and child labour were enforced. Personally.

The pubic view of the empress drastically improved and there was a great increase in the amount of systems supporting the Empire. Some even volunteered to join the Empire without anyone suggesting it. Dormé was very pleased with this turn of events, proud of the peace Anakin and she had brought to the galaxy and proud of the changes they were making for the betterment of all species. In her free time, Dormé continued spending as much time as she could with the younglings in their care, oftentimes baking them desserts or reading them stories. She knew it would only be a matter of time before she would have a baby of her own and this was mere practice. She did like playing with the younglings though and felt awful for them having been ripped away from their parents just after birth to be raised by the doomed Jedi Order.

However, Dormé found it odd that though the younglings were very warm with her, they didn’t seem to feel comfortable around her Sith Lord husband. One time, a young girl actually tried to ‘hide’ in Dormé’s skirt when Anakin stopped by. She assumed they were shy, even though it happened on more than one occasion. Dormé didn’t even consider that their Force sensitivity led them to being able to sense the scary darkness within Darth Vader.

---

As Dormé began to recover Anakin couldn’t help but be so relieved to see the colour return to her cheeks and her fragile form growing stronger. Even so, he couldn’t help but feel concerned for her well-being and had taken to scouring the Empire to locate the finest healers and specialists. It was his hope that with multiple opinions and prognosis, an answer would be found and the matter properly handled. However, of all the healers and physicians who examined his wife it would seem there was only one group of people who were capable of healing her properly; they were the younglings who had survived the Jedi massacre. They took to her as though Dormé was their biological mother and it warmed Anakin’s heart to see and hear how much joy they brought his beloved. He always knew that she would make a wonderful mother and this only confirmed it.

But like Dormé, the young Sith Lord too enjoyed being in the presence of younglings and upon occasion would stop by the playroom in the hopes of joining his beloved as she played or read to them. However while they welcomed Dormé with open arms, their reaction to him was quite the opposite. At first Anakin -much like his Dormé- presumed they were just shy for he was after all less acquainted with them than Dormé. But the more he tried to connect with them the more obvious it became that his presence was not welcome there. When he tried to interact with them, most would fall silent and back away -or more exactly find refuge in Dormé’s skirts and arms. The few that did speak to him only did so because he was talking directly to them and even then it was one word answers or simple replies as though fearing if they didn’t danger awaited them. Their fear both confused and hurt him despite Dormé’s gentle re-assurances that they were just shy and that in time they would warm up to him. Deep down Vader knew otherwise, although the true reasons for this still evaded him. In the end, the only answer he could come up with was that they had been witness to his actions when he had killed some of the younglings. In reality, there was no survivors to speak of his actions against the children.

Nevertheless, the Sith Lord finally got the message and reluctantly refrained from visiting the playroom all together. Though it pained him not being able to join Dormé when she spent time with the children, Anakin was both happy that Dormé was able to find such joy in their presence. He knew it would only be a matter of time before they would have a youngling of their own to play games and share stories with. While her actions towards the younglings that lived in their palace was most generous, it didn’t just end there. For soon she was ensuring the security and well-being of all children in the Empire. By enforcing laws against slavery and child labour—which she ensured personally was being followed— Dormé had earned the love and respect of the people. To the public she was as beautiful as she was kind-hearted. Not only had peace been restored, but also living conditions improved substantially for all, especially for the Empire’s youngest members.

Though Vader had always been in awe of his wife’s skills he couldn’t help but be amazed at her ability to enforce the law without causing so much as a ripple of resistance. Even more amazing was the offers that came from other planets wanting to become a part of the Empire without the initiation or negotiations on their part. It seemed everyone wanted to be a part of this Utopia that Dormé had created. But while the public was able to bask in the Empress’s presence at the end of the day it was the Emperor who called Dormé his own and for that he couldn’t have been more happy or grateful.

---

Ever since the slaughter of the Separatists and conglomeration of the empire two years ago, Dormé found dissent in the senate that was getting to be quite disconcerting. However, the worst was yet to come. As she paced the large office that had once belonged to the Supreme Chancellor and she had lately redecorated, Dormé tried to think of the best way to figure out who in the senate was the major opposing force against their imperial regime. It was hard to say, other than Senator Mon Mothma, very few people were as vocal about their opinions. There was Senator Organa from Alderaan, but as of late, he seemed to rethink his position on the empire…

Suddenly, the door slid open and her former mistress, Queen Amidala entered leading an entourage of five other senators.

The conversation swiftly turned to the senate’s decision to replace local governments with imperial generals in every sector. It was to ensure loyalty to the empire on every planet to lessen the chance of terrorists.

Dormé was appalled at her former mistress’s vocal protests. ‘I am doing what is right for the empire, to ensure this is the end of the conflict, that peace will remain intact, Amidala.’

‘On behalf of the ‘delegation of two-thousand,’ I thank you, Your Majesty,’ Padmé replied with a curt bow.

Dormé glared at them as they exited, hardly wanting to look at this petition. They didn’t even realise that the generals were already on their way. There would be no one stopping them. She would make sure the imperial forces in the empire were the only bodies with weapons.

She also knew that a public statement or this new authority would be the only thing to keep the rest of the senate in line. These two-thousand individuals had signed their death warrant! But no, no, that would be too destructive to kill them all… Only one death would be necessary…just one…one who held great weight, who was beloved by many and hated by even more…

Queen Amidala must die.

---

It had been almost a week since he resumed the hunt once more for the remnant Jedi, although if one were to ask him as such Anakin wouldn’t be quite able to recall when he first departed. For days, he survived solely on the dark side that coursed through his veins, not bothering with food or drink or even rest. He was on the hunt and was far too consumed by his feral need for the slaughter to even register the animal he had become. Despite the fact he had removed three more of his former comrades, the Sith Lord wasn’t satisfied enough to return home. Feeling their life energy spilling from their body gave him a rush like nothing else, as did the sound of their requiem cries as they became one with the Force. There was still more out there and he wasn’t about to stop until they were all nothing more than memories of a time long past.

His body was in desperate need of nutrition and water. While in the midst of tracking another Jedi—one whose name still evaded him—through the jungle like forests of an outer rim planet, the young emperor’s body began to shut down. The ground began to spin beneath his feet and though his thoughts were entirely on the kill, he couldn’t ignore the violent sense of vertigo. Even so, he tried to move forward lest his prey escape his grasp but the more he trudged on the harder it was to remain focussed. His vision soon began to blur while the lightsaber in his right hand began to shake before deactivating as it slipped out of his fingers. Even before he had a chance to register what was happening, his eyes rolled into the back of his head as his body went limp leaving him unconscious on the forest bed.

When he awoke, he had no idea what time it was, or more exactly, where he now found himself. But after taking in his surroundings, Vader soon registered that he had somehow found his way back to his ship or more exactly the primitive med lab of his ship. Scowling, he immediately sat up only to find the room spinning violent which caused him to lay down again.

‘Just what the uragal is going on!?’ he demanded of the med droid who informed him that he was suffering from malnutrition. He soon learnt that he had been brought back to his ship after one of his clone commanders who were scanning the regions for possible resistance had found him. Giving a tired sigh, he fell silent to the news before feeling a chill run down his spine as he realised he couldn’t remember much of what had occurred in the past few days. It had all seemed like a blur to him and he could only wonder what would have happened if he hadn’t been found.

After he had received proper injections of vitamins and supplements, the Sith Lord was soon on his feet and chartering the quickest way home. He discovered it had been almost six days since he had last seen Dormé and the thought immediately made him long for. As Coruscant came into view, he finally received a message in reply to the one he sent out. Lady Dormé was currently in a meeting he was informed but should be done shortly. The thought brought an eager smile to his face as he was already imagining holding her in his arms once more.

---

Upon her revelation, Dormé was informed that her husband had returned from his Jedi hunt. It was only then she realised just how long he had been gone and she was eager to see him. Her revelation was promptly the back of her thoughts as she rushed through the hallways that would take her to the lifts leading to the nearest landing platform. Even in her hurry, a clone trooper informed her of his condition and whatever thoughts about political matters vanished as her concern for him overrode everything else. She hastened her pace to the platform where he had yet to arrive. Placing a hand over her eyes, she looked up into the evening sky, clouds covering most of her vision as she strained to make out a hint of his ship.

Unaware of the fact his wife had been informed of his state of exhaustion -which he hardly felt was that bad- Anakin was swift to return to Coruscant. As his ship finally reached the landing pad he could both seen and sense Dormé’s presence as soon as the ship landed he was barrelling out of the ship. ‘Dormé!!’ he shouted as he ran towards her before swooping her up in his arms and twirling her around feeling as though a million years had past since he had seen her last.

Upon seeing his figure rushing out the ship, she raced over to him, meeting him halfway before being caught up in his embrace. She hugged him tightly. ‘Anakin,’ she gasped in a sigh of relief. Knowing that he was here made everything better. He was all right.

Pulling back after he set her back on her feet, she could see how worn out he was, place, and thinner too. She didn’t ask about it, knowing that it was hard work hunting down the enemies of their empire. Instead, she kissed him and told him how much she had missed him.

Dormé’s relief wasn’t missed and Anakin wondered if something was wrong but refrained from asking knowing she would tell him when the moment was right. He was losing himself in her kiss and with it all coherent thought faded away leaving only joy at being in her arms once more.

Once they were indoors and in a more secure location, she updated him on the political matters, though she imagined he hardly wanted to hear about it after his long journey and being away from Coruscant for so long. She inevitably cut herself short and set about fixing something for him to eat in their private rooms.

While it was not his forte or interest he was always fascinated at how Dormé was able to handle the complicated situations that he himself would fail miserably at. As she cut herself short, Anakin promptly began to ask further questions wanting to learn more of how she tended to matters. However as she slipped into the kitchen to fix some food, he attempted to help her in what way he could, though he knew in reality his presence was hardly needed.

Dormé chided herself for not having something already prepared for Anakin because she wanted him to have something proper to eat, especially with how thin he looked. Even though he looked exhausted, she didn’t object to his help in the kitchen and soon enough they were able to have a nice meal together.

Though he knew he was far from skilled when it came to anything culinary related he knew how much Dormé enjoyed it and wanted to be a part of this simple pleasure as well.

She answered all of his questions and concluded with her dark thoughts on the Queen of Naboo. ‘I have a copy of their betrayal, all two-thousand names clear as day...’ Dormé shook her head. ‘I never thought Amidala, my former mistress, would do such a thing...’

Upon hearing of Padmé’s blatant betrayal, he felt his blood beginning to boil. Though he’d hardly call the Naboo queen his friend he had known her for many years and couldn’t help but take this course of action as not only as an insult but as a betrayal to both Dormé and himself. Rising to his feet the young emperor began to pace his expression stormy as he folded his arms. ‘The nerve of them…all of them. How dare they make such demands! After all you have done for them, for their subjects and children they would actually have the gall to do this!’ he snapped. Pausing in mid-step, he then faced Dormé feeling a rush of sorrow for her as he could only imagine how hard it had to have been for her to face her former mistress and hear such words. ‘I can’t believe she would do that to you. I expected her to react this way to me but to you Dormé, it’s just like a slap to your face!’ he said feeling another rush of rage pour over him as he began to pace once more. ‘I want them dead. All of them. No, nevermind. That would cause too many complications. The last thing we need is to encourage more resistance,’ he said correcting himself before facing Dormé once more. This time his expression was both dark and resolute. Though Dormé didn’t say as much Anakin could tell she knew what had to be done.

‘I explained to them that the generals’ presence would not interfere with their daily business, that it was a protective measure to assure there is no more dissidence from Separatist factions, to quell the violence in their communities, to make sure our policies are being followed, that no more children are victims or abuse—’ Dormé added, also rising to her feet as the anger flowed through her as readily as it had just hours ago. Watching him pace sent waves of excitement through her as though it were mere energy vibrating over every inch of her skin. His protestation only confirmed what she believed to be true. They were all traitors to the empire, to the peace they were trying to enforce. ‘Do they not want peace? Do they not thank us for ending the war?!’

Anakin continued to pace at Dormé’s words finding more truth in them than ever before. It made his blood boil to think how ungrateful their subjects were for all that had been done for them. Was it not for their own safety that such security was being put in place? ‘How can they ask us to protect them one minute and then complain about our protection the next?’ he growled as Dormé rose to her feet.

At Dormé’s words he nodded in agreement. ‘Exactly. After all we’ve done for them and yet they remain so ungrateful to us,’ he snapped. ‘Seeing as Padmé wants so badly to be the first to stand against us, it’s only fitting that she be the first to pay for it as well.’

His dark expression as he faced her mirrored her own and she drew nearer to him, resting her hands on his shoulders. She nodded resolutely to his words. ‘Her death will be a public warning to all those who dare to oppose us.’

Anakin watched her drawing near and as she rested her hands on his shoulders he studied her with burning intensity. Her final statement said all he needed to hear giving her a dark smile he slipped his arms around her and pulled her near. ‘Her death would ensure her allies think twice before daring to oppose us. Without their leader the resistance is certain to fall.’

‘And never again will there be such defiance of our rule,’ Dormé added smiling evilly. Her hands slipped around his neck as she rose up to kiss him. This kiss was as aggressive as her dark thoughts and she felt cheated by the Jedi scum who opposed their rule and caused him to be away from home for so long. But soon none of that would matter, for all of their opposition would be destroyed.

Anakin said nothing further at her reply though his wicked smile said all that needed to be said. Feeling her arms slip around his neck, the young Sith Lord purred in reply as he leaned in to eagerly kiss her back. Her kiss was passionate and fiery much like his own and Anakin was eager to take this to the next level as it had been too long since he was in her arms. The matter of Padmé could wait for right now he had far more pressing matters to tend with and it was with this in mind that he eagerly began to undo the clasps of her gown, not caring that their bed chambers was a short distance away.

In the back of her mind, Dormé knew she ought to ask Anakin about his collapse, to have him checked to make sure it wasn’t anything serious. But at this moment, she could hardly think straight as this darkness and converse fire warred within her. She was just as eagerly removing his utility belt and almost professionally undoing his tunic before they even made it to the bedroom, her lips never leaving his own.

Lost to the fire that was found in Dormé’s kiss and embrace Anakin was quick to lose himself in the moment and could barely even register the passionate journey to their bedroom. It was only in the morning did he finally remember the events and discussion from the night before.

It was just after midnight when the troops invaded the Naboo palace. Queen Amidala was ripped from her bed, along with her handmaidens, every one of them arrested and taken to Coruscant as prisoners. The handmaidens were separated and interrogated, seeing where their loyalties stood in regards to the empire. Dormé would eventually decide which of them would remain on Coruscant in her service and which would be sent off to be reconditioned in their imperial university.

The hour was late when Anakin received word of Padmé’s arrest. Pleased with the results, he also learnt her handmaidens were also arrested and placed in cells. The thought was amusing to say the least as he could only imagine some of their reactions.

Though Anakin and Dormé planned on seeing to Amidala’s execution personally, Dormé thought the young queen could sweat it out in their prison cells for a few days. It would also allow the other systems time to hear about her arrest and strike fear in the hearts of the delegates on the list of traitors.

At Dormé’s suggestion to have Padmé sweat it out for a bit in the prison cell Anakin wholeheartedly agreed.

---

Padmé remained calm and stoic about the entire ordeal, despite the interrogations. The older handmaidens too seemed to be eerily calm about the entire situation although if anyone showed promise of loyalty to the Empire it was ironically none other than Dormé’s former mentor. Little did Anakin realise however that the older handmaiden was under orders to play along. Sabé too under orders neither confirmed nor denied her loyalties and for the most part remained silent throughout the entirety of the sessions, as did Rabé.

After she had heard enough, Dormé decided to pull Anakin aside to converse privately. She had her doubts about many of the handmaidens. She knew it wouldn’t be safe to keep them together, nevermind have them in their service. But Dormé wanted to keep them alive. ‘But I don’t know,’ she continued. ‘I don’t trust Sabé. Saché and Typho I do, but Sabé...What did you think when you tested them?’

Anakin listened intently to Dormé’s thoughts on the matter as he valued opinion and trusted her decisions implicitly. So when she admitted that she didn’t trust them but at the same time wasn’t too fond of killing them either the young Sith Lord suggested that perhaps they placed in exile. ‘It will keep them from having regular contact with each other and with other possible resistance members,’ he suggested before falling silent as Dormé admitted that while she trusted her former mentor and the security captain she was uncertain about Sabé. Having recalled touching their thoughts Anakin for the most found little if anything that would openly mark them as traitors. He wasn’t exactly skilled in such feats and so despite his incredible strength within the Force he was unable to properly deep probe the woman’s thoughts, which was fortunate as most had connections with one form of resistance or another.

Upon recalling Sabé’s interrogation Anakin did remember that the woman had something that none of the others hand, mind blocks. They were crude and simple but there were there nonetheless which told him two things; she was Force sensitive and she was hiding something. Although he found nothing substantial it was enough evidence to prove her guilt. ‘I found nothing of substance that would label them as traitors, except for the one you call Sabé. She had crude mind blocks in place marking that not only is she Force sensitive, but she’s hiding something. I wasn’t able to learn what that was as she had fainted after I broke through them,’ Anakin admitted a little sheepishly as it was a testament to the fact he wasn’t trained enough in the dark side to break them properly without wounding his prey. ‘Personally I think she is too close to Padmé to live. She was after all her principle handmaiden for years which means she probably is in this as much as Padmé is’ Anakin concluded.

Dormé agreed with Anakin’s assessment. Having the rest of the handmaidens and security, outside of Captain Typho and her former mentor Saché, exhiled seemed like a rational move. However, when it came to Sabé, to hear that she resisted the interrogation through use of mindblocks, this added to her concern. ‘That is probably for the best,’ she agreed when he suggested they kill her too. Having decided this, the pair returned to Sabé’s cell with the intention of killing her. Dormé was not sorry about it at all. She only regretted that the older woman was a traitor as much as the queen was.

With Dormé’s agreement the matter was settled and Anakin followed Dormé back to the prison cell where the principle handmaiden remained bound and chained to the floor. As they entered the cell, the now dishevelled and bruised handmaiden spoke not a word and silently rose to her feet. With a steady gaze that didn’t hide her exhaustion or the pain she was still feeling from Anakin’s attack on her mind block Sabé politely bowed. Even in her weakened state, the older handmaiden seemed mindful of her manners which amused Anakin who scowled in disgust.

‘There is no need to continue this little facade of innocence, Lady Nabish, as we are already well aware of your betrayal,’ the Sith Lord stated in cold tones as he removed his lightsaber from his hilt.

If Sabé was frightened by the fact she was about to die it too didn’t show. The older handmaiden remained defiant through her silence and watchful eyes. Looking to Dormé, she said not a word but her expression spoke volumes, not of hatred or of rage rather of silent disappointment.

Dormé glared at the traitor who dared to ally herself with the traitorous Nabooan Queen, hardly appreciating her mock attempt at respect to them. How dare she remain silent! ‘Speak! This is your last chance to confess your crimes,’ she hissed icily as Vader ignited his lightsaber.

Anakin paused finding Dormé’s order to be both amusing and intriguing. The thought of this one defiant handmaiden begging for her life only to lose it all the same was far too entertaining to pass up.

Standing by his side in all confidence, she watched as he used the Force to make the handmaiden fall to her knees in front of them. The look in Sabé’s eyes shook Dormé, making her feel suddenly off balance as though the principal handmaiden had her own Force powers to cause one to feel such things. Dormé was far too into her own warped view of reality to understand this feeling of guilt that suddenly came over her. Why should she feel guilty anyway, when Sabé and the Queen were in the wrong?

The former decoy and queen’s confident was not one who feared death and this soon became apparent to the Sith Lord who soon grew impatient at her silence. But it was the shift in Dormé’s emotions that caused the young emperor’s patience to fully reach its end. How dare this pathetic woman try to play mind tricks on my wife! he inwardly fumed as he could sense Dormé’s confusion and sudden struggle. He knew they were innocent. It was this pathetic woman who was the traitor…her and the Naboo queen, as well as their allies. Having justified his actions and their innocence, Vader promptly drew back his lightsaber and swung the blade towards Sabé’s throat with the intent of ending her life once and for all.

‘If only Obi-Wan could see you now.’

The words seemed to come out of nowhere or so it felt to the young emperor. Immediately his body stiffened, while the lightsaber in his hand froze in mid action. It was now so close to the older handmaiden’s throat that burn marks were beginning to form from the heat of the blade. Time suddenly ceased to move for the young Sith Lord whose sickly yellow gaze was held by Sabé’s amber eyes. But it wasn’t Sabé he saw, it was the sight of his brother on the day Anakin had left the Jedi Order. Though no words were exchanged during their final meeting the silence between them spoke volumes and Anakin would never forget the look that Obi-Wan wore in their final moment together.

Obi-Wan. The name seemed to ring in the air and Dormé staggered backward, her eyes locked on Anakin. She vividly recalled the look in his former Master and brother’s eyes when he told him he was no longer going to be his Padawan.

The dark side began to lose its grip on Vader’s thoughts, leaving the young emperor feeling both vulnerable and divided. Suddenly he found himself recalling happier, simpler times when it wasn’t just Dormé and himself against the universe. Though his expression remained stoic and cold, the lightsaber in his hand began shake slightly as the colour of his eyes began to return to their natural shade of blue marking the struggle within. Swallowing hard the young Emperor suddenly lowered his eyes and without further warning, de-activated his lightsaber while at the same time the chains that bound Sabe to the floor snapped open.

She watched him, his hand shaking, his faltering... She didn’t know what was going on until Sabé’s handcuffs fell to the floor, inactive, just as his lightsaber was deactivated.

‘You’re free to go,’ he said in barely audible whisper, before adding in equally quiet tones without looking to Dormé, ‘Let her go...’ Without another word spoken the Sith Lord then abruptly departed from the cell without looking back.

His whispered command struck her with despair and her heart went out to him. But he was already departing and she was instructed to free the principal handmaiden. Swallowing hard, Dormé stepped backwards toward the exit, her eyes on Sabé until she could no longer hold her gaze. Dormé then turned on her heels and fled the cellblock after her husband. This wouldn’t change anything! she thought fiercely. Amidala still had to pay. She was in the wrong. She was the one against the empire, against peace... Why were tears coming to Dormé’s eyes? She swallowed again, biting back her tears as she commanded an officer to escort Sabé out.

Sabé didn’t expect this reaction but found a powerful sense of hope in it. Obi-Wan was right after all, there still was a chance and it was in this that Sabé felt her hope for Dormé also return. As her restraints fell to the floor, her attentions remained on the couple and in silence she watched as Anakin ordered her release and departed. Just as she watched as Dormé swallowed hard and stepped back to the exit. Sabé continued to hold the younger woman’s gaze until Dormé fled the room. Only then did she bow her head in silence as she forced her thoughts clear. She knew this as something Obi-Wan would appreciate knowing and immediately decided she would speak of this the minute she saw him again. Then waiting a moment longer to steady her heart Sabé then rose to her feet and departed the prison cell as well.

---

Anakin couldn’t remain still if he tried and in silence he paced the halls of their grand palace struggling against memories he wanted to forget and yet lose himself in at the same time. As loathed as he was to admit it, the Sith Lord missed his brother dearly and had gone to great lengths since his inaugeration as a Sith Lord to bury his memory in the back of his thoughts. He tried to tell himself that he was an enemy that as a Sith Lord the only way their paths could cross would be in the heat of battle. But deep down he knew otherwise and there were times when he found himself wondering how Obi-Wan was doing or where he was living now or what became of him. The moments when Vader found himself learning a new skill or advancing in the way of the Force, thought of how he would love to show this to his brother. Then harsh reality would return, reminding Anakin that Obi-Wan would be more disappointed than impressed by his advancements in the dark side. Though he’d tell himself that he didn’t care such thoughts always hurt more than he wanted to admit and the young emperor was grateful that these moments had grown far and few between. In fact, in recent months, he had almost completely forgotten about his brother…until today.

Now the memories were returning with a vengeance leaving Vader feeling as out of sorts and lost as he did on the eve of his inauguration. Drawing in a shaky sigh he tried once more to bury his thoughts and focus on the present. Reminding himself of the plans that had to be set in motion for Padmé’s death Anakin tried to figure out what was left to be completed. But almost as soon as he attempted to figure out what was left to be done Sabé’s words returned to haunt him leaving him unsettled once more. In the end, his travels found him back at their private balcony resting once more against the awkward ledge that had now become his haunt whenever his thoughts were troubled. Only when he was semi-seated against the ledge was he able to fully divulge in the past and silently mourn the only regret he ever had about meeting his destiny as a Sith Lord.

After the unsettling confrontation with Sabé, Dormé needed room to breathe. She blamed the confusing emotions on the fact she was pregnant again. Though it was hardly noticeable to others, there was a small bump in her lower abdomen, one that she would die protecting if it should come to that. This was why the insurrection had to end. It was why they had fought so long and hard for peace in this war torn galaxy. But as she found her husband on their balcony, pensively looking out at Coruscant’s cityscape, she wasn’t sure she should interrupt his ruminations. Instead, she took a seat on the couch nearby and watched him.

Anakin could sense Dormé’s presence as well as the small spark of life that was growing within her. The thought of their unborn child brought a hint of a smile to his features. This was the farthest along that any of Dormé’s pregnancies had gotten and this brought a feeling of hope to his tired thoughts. But it soon faded away as once more he thought of his brother and how he wished there could be some way he could share this wonderful news with him.

Not that he would want to talk to you now, the darkness whispered into his thoughts causing Anakin’s smile to fade as he furrowed his brow. Now was not the time for such thoughts for this was meant to be a happy time them both. After all, soon their little girl would be born and all the threats that could be posed to her would become nothing more than a blot on the page of history. He wanted their empire to be perfect for their little princess and focussing on this Anakin found it was a bit easier to swallow the pain of his brother’s absence. Though it didn’t entirely get rid of it, the Sith Lord joined Dormé’s side and without a word spoken, slipped his arms around her petite form. While he still believed they had no choice in the matter, that this had to be done, that they were doing the right thing, Anakin found himself needing Dormé’s silent reassurance. Anything to remind him that everything was as it should be, that this was where they wanted to be, and that this was what they were meant to do all along.

As though sensing her need for reassurance, Anakin soon moved next to her, slipping his arms around her. She held him close, breathing in the confidence she needed. Their little girl would be proud of her parents accomplishment. She would grow up safely and inherit an empire with a legacy of peace. Though Sabé’s disappointed eyes and resonating words had shaken them, it was because the traitor was grasping at straws. She was trying to make them falter, to waver from their goals, nothing more. The truth unconsciously filtered to the back of her thoughts, as the lies were more powerful.

Her silent presence was like a healing balm to Anakin’s divided and confused thoughts. As he held her close Vader felt her emotions beginning to calm as well, reminding him that she needed his assurances as much as he needed hers. Gently rubbing her back, Anakin studied Dormé in silence before giving her a hint of a smile. ‘She was just trying to confuse us; that’s all,’ Anakin murmured softly.

Dormé’s thumb stroked the back of his shoulder in semicircles as he spoke. ‘It’s like Sabé to protect her mistress at whatever cost. She would make up all sorts of lies in the process,’ Dormé muttered. ‘Why else did she want us to spare her if not to continue her mistress’s work behind our backs?’ Her words were stronger than what her will believed.

Anakin felt the nagging doubt return. Furrowing his brow, the emperor shook his head slightly in reply. ‘She won’t continue Padmé’s work. Not after her death and even if she did, I can’t kill her. Not now,’ Anakin admitted as he sighed. Anakin nodded silently to Dormé’s words, letting himself believe them to be fact as he allowed the truth to be buried beneath the lies. It was just easier this way and far less pain as well. ‘If we don’t do this, what sort of world will our little girl grow up in?’ he continued softly confirming the fact their decision was the right one or so he believed. ‘It is for her that we do this, for all future generations,’ he said though it wasn’t certain who he was truly trying to convince Dormé or himself.

The mention of their baby reminded her this had to be done. ‘I want her to be proud of us and all we’ve accomplished, not to see it in ruins.’

He gave a shy smile to Dormé’s words. ‘They’re sure to love her as much as we do,’ Anakin said thoughtfully referring to the people of their empire, as his free hand slipped to her womb.

Wrapping her arms around him as his rested a hand on her womb, she exhaled, leaning into him. His words brought a smile to her face. ‘I know they will love her. Not as much as we do, but close enough.’ She gave him a squeeze, thinking about the first time they would announce her birth and then the first time they would show her to the public... And soon she was caught up in lovely daydreams about their little girl.

Her words solidified his own thoughts and eased the last of his doubts leaving him feeling far more at peace than he did a short while ago. The Sith lord kissed her cheek before slipping his hand from her womb around her once more as he began to play with a loose strand of her long hair. As though sensing her thoughts, Anakin began to speak of his hopes for the future and of all the things he couldn’t wait to show and do with their daughter. The thought of being a family filled him with such joy that it almost made him giddy with excitement. ‘I know she’ll be joining us soon but it still seems like a long ways away,’ he admitted wistfully. ‘I can’t wait to see what she looks like, to be able to hold her in our arms.’

Gazing at Anakin with loving eyes, she mused, ‘Our little Aené... I wonder if she’ll enjoy flying as much as you or tinkering with mechanics.’

Anakin expression softened at her words as his eyes took on a dreamy look as he too found himself envisioning their daughter learning how to fly or creating things. ‘I bet she’s going to have your talents for cooking,’ he further mused before adding with a wink, ‘and will always be making new and delicious creations like her ama.’

‘I have a feeling we’ll have to keep a close eye on her if she has your knack for sneaking off into handmaidens’ living quarters.’ She couldn’t wait to be chasing after their little one, once she learnt to walk and run.

Anakin tightened his embrace around his beloved as she kissed his cheek. He rested his head over hers. Soon he was musing aloud of how like Dormé he couldn’t wait until Aené was running about the palace getting into all sorts of mischief. The thought warmed his heart and made him so eager for the arrival of their daughter. At her teasing remarks Anakin just laughed as he shook his head, ‘Force help us if Aené has her ama’s sense of escaping trouble we’re both going to be quite busy trying to keep up with her!’

Dormé chuckled before getting very excited. ‘Oh I just thought of what we could do while we wait for her to be born! She’ll eventually need to have her own room. Why don’t we design one for her? After this whole business with Amidala is sorted it out, of course. You did such a wonderful job with my quarters. I certainly wouldn’t be able to do that alone.’

The young Sith lord’s eyes lit up. Anakin beamed at the thought already looking forward to hearing her thoughts and ideas of how to design their daughter’s room. ‘I say we should start as soon as possible!’ he said eagerly. ‘Time is running out—despite our thoughts of otherwise—and we definitely want everything to be ready for her arrival,’ Anakin continued as he gave her a squeeze. ‘I haven’t even met you little Aené, yet already I love you as much as I love your ama,’ Anakin thought in loving contentment as his fingers once more slipped to the tiny hint of a bulge on Dormé’s torso.

Dormé’s hand slipped into his which rested over her womb. If anything illustrated just how much they loved each other, it was this, their little girl. ‘How long did it take for you to create that room for me anyway?’ she wondered as he said that time was running out with the imminent birth of their little Aené. There were three months left at least, by the doctor’s calculations.

Anakin’s expression grew nostalgic. ‘It took a couple of months, mostly because I was waiting for some of the supplies to be designed like the pool and the waterfall,’ he admitted as he gave her a grin. ‘That and I had to find out in a round about way just what exactly a certain handmaiden liked in the way of flora and fauna without telling her my surprise.’

At the mention of the room Anakin created for her for their second year dating, she thought it was incredibly endearing that he had tried to figure out what sorts of fauna she fancied without ruining the surprise. Giving him a playful poke, ‘As if I would have been able to guess such a magnificent surprise!’

At her playful poke and teasing words Anakin chuckled before giving her a kiss and a wink. ‘Well I couldn’t risk that chance now could I?’ he teased back.

Just as they began discussing the more realistic designs for Aené’s room, a security officer was buzzing the chime on their private quarters, interrupting this wistful moment.

Anakin frowned slightly in reply. ‘This better be good, otherwise I’m going to make them wish they were never born,’ he grumbled as he reluctantly slipped out of Dormé’s arms to tend to the door.

The security officer informed the emperor that Lady Nabish was being escorted to her exile when the transport was invaded by a one Master Kenobi. They tried to stop him, but were unable to, though only one member of the crew was injured and the rest were alive but disarmed and locked in Nabish’s cell.

Dormé couldn’t hear what was going on from the balcony and knew whatever it was, Anakin would take care of it. She contently looked out over their cityscape, stroking her slightly swollen torso, thinking of their plans for the future.

Anakin could only stare in disbelief. ‘You mean to tell me my—’ the Sith Lord fell silent as his suspicions pertaining to Lady Nabish and his brother were now confirmed. Raising a brow, he gave a frustrated sigh feeling uncertain about what to make of this news. His thoughts immediately scattered as memories of past rescue missions with his brother returned reminding him of happier times with Obi-Wan. While at the same time the realisation as to why his brother felt it necessary to do this left Vader feeling awkward and oddly guilty. Surely, Obi-Wan knew that he wouldn’t kill Sabé, certainly not now knowing what she meant to him? But after coming so close to killing the former principle handmaiden, the Sith Lord couldn’t really blame the Jedi Master for acting as he did.

‘I’ve already begun a search of the Jedi and the prisoner’s position and already have the basic coordinates of their loc—’ the security officer began.

‘No, that won’t be necessary. This is a personal matter, one that I will tend to myself,’ Vader stated coldly as his thoughts jumped to the present. The officer looked like he was about to protest but fell silent at Anakin’s sharp glare. ‘You are dismissed,’ he said coldly before silently joining Dormé’s side as she overlooked the city. With a deep sigh, he slipped his hands around her petite torso and nuzzled himself against her neck.

Dormé hummed contently when she felt Anakin returning to her side once more, fitting perfectly next to her. She didn’t question him, knowing the interruption was no longer an issue as he had taken care of it.

Anakin smiled slightly to the sound of her humming. Her voice was always enchanting to him and for a moment, he just fell silent and enjoyed her musical voice. ‘It would seem my brother objected to the destination we had chosen for Lady Nabish,’ he replied in quiet but dry tones marking his lack of amusement on the matter.

His remark caught her off guard and she didn’t know what to make of it. ‘Your brother?’ she asked. ‘What do you mean?’

‘He collected Sabé from the ship that was escorting her to the outer rim. No one was killed, although I’ve been informed one was injured. All were disarmed and stowed away in the brig for us to find,’ Anakin concluded feeling strangely tired and worn at the thought. ‘I shouldn’t have expected anything less from him. But—’ he shook his head and gave another sigh before burying his face in her hair as Anakin wanted nothing more than to forget the entire incident.

At the news, Dormé thought it was quite odd. She didn’t put two and two together: that Anakin’s brother might have any sort of feelings for the former principal handmaiden. But it was clear that Anakin didn’t want to talk about it. Reaching up to stroke his hair as he buried his face in hers, she decided it didn’t matter anyway. ‘Soon we will remove Amidala and all of this mess will be behind us.’

Feeling her fingers in his hair Anakin felt the worse of his thoughts beginning to ease just as her words brought a hint of a smile to his lips. She was right after all with the return of justice and their opposition gone things would return to normal and they could focus on more important things like preparing the palace for their daughter’s arrival. Tightening his embrace around her Anakin kissed her neck. ‘You always know how to make things better,’ he murmured in gentle gratitude before drawing back slightly as he gave her a loving smile. ‘I’m so glad I have you by my side.’

Dormé smiled at him, a smile which told him how much she loved him as she continued stroking his hair. She loved the feel of it through her fingers, despite the fact his Padawan braid had long since been severed. Her thoughts once more drifted to the future and she had never looked forward to it so much as she did in this moment.